President Donald Trump has warned that he might push to remove 2026 World Cup games from Boston due to ongoing safety issues in the city. He also raised concerns about Los Angeles hosting the 2028 Olympics, citing risks like wildfires and urban unrest, though he lacks direct power to make these changes.
Background on Trump’s Statements
Trump made these comments during a White House press event on October 14, 2025, alongside Argentine President Javier Milei. The discussion followed questions about recent violent street takeovers in Boston, where crowds gathered for car stunts, leading to attacks on police and a burned police vehicle.
He pointed to Boston Mayor Michelle Wu as part of the problem, calling her leadership ineffective and tied to radical politics. Trump suggested he could contact FIFA President Gianni Infantino directly to relocate games if conditions do not improve.
For Los Angeles, Trump mentioned potential dangers from wildfires, which have plagued California in recent years, and general safety worries. This fits his pattern of criticizing cities with leaders he opposes.
Experts note that while Trump can apply pressure, final decisions rest with FIFA for the World Cup and the International Olympic Committee for the Olympics.
Reasons Behind the Safety Concerns
Recent events in Boston have fueled these threats. Street takeovers, popular since the COVID-19 era, involve large groups blocking roads for risky driving displays. In Boston, these have turned violent, with reports of crowds overwhelming police and causing property damage.
Trump linked this to broader unrest, including protests and crime spikes. Data from 2025 shows Boston police handled over 50 such incidents this year, up from 30 in 2024, according to city reports.
In Los Angeles, wildfires remain a top worry. The 2025 fire season has already scorched thousands of acres, forcing evacuations and straining resources. Trump argued that hosting major events amid such risks could endanger visitors and athletes.
He also referenced past issues like homelessness and crime in LA, though recent stats show a 10 percent drop in violent crime from 2024 levels.
These concerns echo Trump’s earlier threats against other cities, like Seattle and San Francisco, over similar political and safety disputes.
Impact on Host Cities and Events
Boston is set to host seven World Cup matches at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, about 22 miles from the city center. Losing these could cost the area millions in tourism revenue, with estimates around $500 million based on past events.
Local leaders, including Mayor Wu, have pushed back, calling the threats political gamesmanship. Wu stated that Boston is working with federal agencies to boost security, despite tensions over immigration policies.
For the 2028 Olympics in LA, preparations are underway with a $7 billion budget. Trump’s comments could complicate planning, as international bodies watch U.S. stability closely.
- Potential economic losses for Boston if games move: Up to $500 million in direct spending.
- Jobs at risk: Around 10,000 temporary positions in hospitality and events.
- Visitor impact: Expected 450,000 international fans could shift elsewhere.
Trump’s Relationship with Sports Bodies
Trump has built close ties with FIFA’s Infantino, who attended White House events and even gifted trophies displayed in the Oval Office. This rapport started during Trump’s first term and grew stronger in 2025.
Infantino joined Trump at global summits, including one in Egypt, showing alignment on hosting matters. However, FIFA has not publicly supported relocating games, emphasizing that host selections consider security reviews.
For the Olympics, Trump’s influence is less direct, but his administration could affect federal funding or visas for athletes.
A table of current U.S. World Cup host cities highlights the stakes:
| City | Stadium | Number of Matches |
|---|---|---|
| Boston (Foxborough) | Gillette Stadium | 7 |
| Atlanta | Mercedes-Benz Stadium | 8 |
| Dallas | AT&T Stadium | 9 |
| Los Angeles | SoFi Stadium | 8 |
| Miami | Hard Rock Stadium | 7 |
This setup spreads games across 11 U.S. locations, plus sites in Canada and Mexico.
Public and Political Reactions
Reactions poured in quickly after Trump’s remarks. Supporters praised him for prioritizing safety, with some on social media calling Boston’s issues a sign of failed local governance.
Critics, including Democrats, accused him of using sports for political leverage. Boston residents expressed frustration, noting that street takeovers are a national problem, not unique to their city.
In LA, officials highlighted improved fire response systems since the 2020 wildfires, which affected over 4 million acres statewide.
Nationwide polls from October 2025 show 55 percent of Americans believe major events should stay in planned cities unless real dangers emerge.
What Happens Next
FIFA plans a security assessment in early 2026, which could address these concerns. Trump indicated he might act if unrest continues, but legal experts say any move would face challenges.
For now, both events remain on track, with organizers focusing on safety upgrades. Cities like Miami or Dallas could gain if relocations happen, boosting their economies.
As this story develops, share your thoughts in the comments below. Do you think Trump’s threats are justified, or are they overreach? Let us know and spread the word to keep the conversation going.
